Organmeetings on the spot

The Onassis Foundation, continuing its steadfast commitment to strengthening public health and fostering a broad culture of organ donation and transplantation, designs and implements the “Organmeetings on the spot” program. Launched in 2024 as a natural extension of the online “Organmeetings” program, this initiative is a key pillar of the National Initiative for Organ Donation and Transplantation, which has been underway in Greece for the past five years. In close collaboration with the Hellenic Transplant Organization, the Onassis Hospital, the administrations of public hospitals, and with the support of the Ministry of Health, the program visits public hospitals across the country. Its aim is to provide frontline healthcare professionals with comprehensive and in-depth information on organ donation and transplantation, delving into all practical stages, procedures, and implementation protocols.

Under the scientific auspices and with the support of partner organizations, “Organmeetings on the spot” is addressed to medical, nursing, and other hospital staff throughout Greece. Its purpose is to provide them with in-depth information and meaningful awareness regarding current developments and best practices in organ donation and transplantation. In this way, their pivotal role is strengthened, as is their ability to make a decisive contribution to the chain of life.

Enhancing the knowledge and awareness of those on the front line of the healthcare system is a fundamental prerequisite for the development of transplant services in our country. Through such initiatives, we create the conditions for more opportunities for life for our fellow citizens.

The smooth conduct of each session is ensured through close coordination with hospital administrations and the Hellenic Transplant Organization.

Through targeted seminars held in the auditoriums of public hospitals, key questions that concern the medical community are addressed, actively contributing to the development of a culture of donation:

• How does someone become an organ donor, and what is the process for completing a transplant?
• How are “organ-donation-friendly” hospitals established?
• What is the patient’s life like before and after the transplant?
• What reforms have taken place in the field of transplantation in Greece (2018–2026), and what is the role of the Onassis Hospital?

The program’s success is evident from the enthusiastic response it has received at the hospitals that have already hosted it. To date, the program has made a significant impact at Evangelismos, Attikon, and KAT hospitals. This dynamic momentum continues, with upcoming stops including the AHEPA University General Hospital of Thessaloniki, the University General Hospital of Heraklion, and many other major hospitals throughout Greece, thereby expanding the nationwide reach and impact of this important initiative.